New Orleans Hornets guard Chris Paul 'respects' decision of David West to opt out

New Orleans Hornets guard Chris Paul, one of the team's co-captains with long-time teammate David West, affirmed his affection for West and said he "respects" West's decision to opt out of the final year of his contract.

The Times-PicayuneNew Orleans Hornets star guard Chris Paul said he respects David West's decision to opt out of the final year of his contract.

"D. West is like a brother to me," Paul said in a text message, "and I respect the fact that he made a decision that he believes in the best interests of himself and his family."

Paul is currently vacationing in the Dominican Republic. He has two major appearances scheduled in New Orleans on Thursday and Friday, a walk for kids and his annual celebrity golf tournament.

West, rehabilitating from April 12 surgery to repair the torn ACL in his left knee, said Monday morning he'd informed Paul of his decision to walk away from the last year of his contract that would have paid him $7.5 million.

Paul can opt out of his last year with the Hornets following the conclusion of next season. Last summer, he was vocally unhappy with the direction of the team and said he'd be open to a trade.

He has not ever requested a trade, however.

Paul, a four-time NBA All-Star, hasn't yet responded to a query about how West's decision might affect his future in New Orleans.